Old Wellingtonian Day: Connections for Longer Journeys Ahead
Once a Wellingtonian, always a Wellingtonian.
Last Friday, Wellington College Hangzhou hosted its inaugural Old Wellingtonian Day. Graduates from the Class of 2024 returned to their alma mater, bringing with them stories of their cross-continental academic journeys. Through sharing and dialogue, they extended Wellington's philosophy of ‘holistic education’ into a visible trajectory of growth, lighting a beacon for current pupils that illuminates the path to the wider world.
The event provided Sixth Form pupils with a platform for in-depth discussions with outstanding alumni. Seven alumni shared reflections not only on knowledge and skills acquired during their time at school but also demonstrated through personal experiences the profound impact of Wellington College Hangzhou's holistic education on their academic development and life paths.
During the round table discussion, alumni systematically shared key insights about studying in the UK and US with younger peers. Topics covered practical areas such as university application strategies, cross-cultural adaptation challenges, academic intensity comparisons, language barrier navigation, campus social integration and financial planning. Beyond these, they explored diverse dimensions including accommodation selection, societies participation, career support services, travel opportunities, culinary adaptation and university support systems for international students.
By sharing case studies and lived experiences, the alumni enabled younger peers to develop a comprehensive understanding of studying abroad, equipping them for future overseas life.
These vivid accounts revealed the core competencies instilled by Wellington College Hangzhou: critical thinking enriching academic exploration, drama-nurtured confidence empowering presentations and boarding-honed collaboration skills serving as an ‘invisible passport’ for integration into diverse communities.
On the day, we spoke with the Class of 2024 about their first year overseas and their advice for current pupils:
Which abilities developed at Wellington College Hangzhou have proven most valuable at university abroad?
Jason: The culture encouraging open communication meant we grew accustomed to speaking freely in English with global teachers and peers. At my UK university, some Chinese students were hesitant to initiate conversations, but Wellington's ethos allowed me to thrive socially overseas.
Hanser: The ability to be independent has been paramount. During my time at school, everything – from shopping and laundry to cooking and studying – required self-management. This was completely different from life at home and greatly strengthened my independence. It was precisely this independence fostered through Wellington boarding life that allowed me to adapt quickly to all aspects of living overseas, achieving a genuine ‘seamless transition’.
Andy: The multicultural environment has equipped me to confidently engage international peers. Wellington's campus was essentially a rehearsal for overseas university life – the atmospheres are remarkably similar.
What was the greatest disparity between pre-university expectations and reality? And the most unexpected positive?
Hanni: The greatest gap is the demand for self-directed learning. Time management and discipline are essential. The surprise? Building mentor relationships with professors who champion your work beyond office hours.
Andy: The sheer volume of self-management was unexpected! My ‘impossible triangle’ theory: you can't simultaneously party well, study well, and sleep well. I prioritised the first two. The delight? Befriending locals is easier than assumed – Wellington's cross-cultural confidence is key. Approach others respectfully, and they respond warmly.
If you could turn back time to a year ago, just before graduation, what single, most important piece of advice about university preparation or mindset adjustment would you give your past self?
Hanser: Relationships are more important than you think! At university, you'll be surrounded by incredibly talented, motivated peers, tutors and professors. Make the effort to approach them, talk, and become friends. You'll learn invaluable things from them that go far beyond the classroom. The strong connections within the Wellington community have actually laid a solid foundation for you. Extend that openness and proactivity, and integrating socially overseas will happen naturally.
What does the connection within the Wellington community mean to you?
Hanni: Returning felt like coming home! This community means knowing people believe in you, have witnessed your growth, and will cheer you on globally. That is Wellington's essence.
As someone who's been through it, what is one key piece of encouragement or advice you most want to share with younger Wellingtonians about to embark on their university journey?
Joe: Be authentic! Focus on your goals, not comparisons. Consistent progress is what counts.
Hanni: At the start of university, the new environment, new faces and everything new can feel overwhelming. But trust that you are far more prepared than you think! The abilities Wellington has given you have paved the way. Take it step by step, and don't be afraid to ask for help. You will grow in ways you never expected.
The inaugural Old Wellingtonian Day was profoundly significant. It reinforced bonds among global alumni, amplifying "We are Wellington" worldwide, while demonstrating the school’s success in nurturing resilient, globally minded talents.
Passing on the torch, Wellington College Hangzhou will steadfastly develop this alumni platform. Returnees shall impart wisdom to new generations, empowering Wellingtonians to sail confidently toward their futures – borne aloft by holistic education.
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